Valley Middle School PTA – Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between P.E. clothes and PTA spirit wear?

P.E. clothes and PTA spirit wear are sold through different organizations and websites.

• P.E. Clothes (Required for class)

  • Purchased through the school’s ASB web store

  • Includes the official P.E. t-shirt and shorts

  • Typically ordered during registration

• PTA Spirit Wear (Optional but fun!)

  • Purchased through the PTA website/store

  • Includes items like hoodies, t-shirts, and other VMS-branded gear

  • Not required for school

👉 If you’re buying P.E. clothes, make sure you are on the ASB site, not the PTA site. Please contact the school for more information.

Is ASB the same as PTA?

No — they are separate organizations.

• ASB (Associated Student Body):
  Student run program that manages student activities, events, and the school store.

• PTA (Parent Teacher Association):
  Volunteer organization that supports the school and ASB through programs, events, and funding.

What is the 8th Grade Knott’s Berry Farm trip?

• This is a school-sponsored field trip organized by ASB

• It is not run or funded by the PTA

• There is a cost to attend but there are scholarships available 

• School administrators send out information about this trip for 8th graders only in the spring of each school year

👉 Questions about this trip should be directed to the school, not PTA.

What does the PTA do for 8th Grade Promotion?

The PTA supports several important parts of the promotion experience:

• 🎉 8th Grade Celebration Lunch & Party

  • Held the day before promotion

  • Takes place after the 8th grade students rehearse

  • Includes catered food and a celebratory atmosphere

• 🎓 Promotion Ceremony Support

  • Stage decorations

  • Volunteer coordination (setup and breakdown)

  • Assistance with the digital program

Who plans the 8th Grade Promotion events?

• The PTA Promotion Chairs lead the planning

• They work in coordination with school administration

• Volunteers support their efforts during the event

Can plans or details change?

Yes.  All events and procedures are subject to change at the discretion of the school Principal or Vice Principal.

How can I help with 8th Grade Promotion events?

We love volunteers! Here’s how it works:

• Each year, PTA seeks 7th grade parents to serve as:

  • Promotion Chair

  • or Co-Chairs

• Volunteers can:

  • Help with the lunch/party

  • Help with ceremony setup and logistics

• A SignUpGenius is shared in May via ParentSquare 

Want early access to volunteer spots?

• Email or contact the PTA anytime during the year: promotion@vmspta.com

• Ask to be added to the interest list

• You’ll get early access to sign-ups before they are released to the full school community

Are volunteer spots limited?

Yes — and they fill quickly.

As a thank-you, volunteers receive:

• Preferred seating + 1 guest at the promotion ceremony
  (if you have an 8th grader)

• OR preferred seating the following year
  (if your student is not yet in 8th grade)

👉 Note: Preferred seating is reserved seating, but not guaranteed to be front row.